PARP inhibitors to treat BRCA defects?

Question fromPondsG:
PARP inhibitors are being tested for efficacy against BRCA1 and 2 defects in breast and ovarian cancers. Is there any indication as to whether such treatments are likely to benefit both types? Is there any hope for a recurrence-preventive trial for those affected?

Answers -Carol Kaplan
PARP inhibitors are drugs intended to target specifically the BRCA mutation carrier population. We happen to have an open clinical trial at the University of Pennsylvania that is currently enrolling breast cancer patients with metastatic disease. There has already been reported promising data for PARP inhibitor therapy for the treatment of ovarian cancer, fortunately. And preliminary clinical data in the breast cancer population suggests that this therapy could be worthwhile.

On Wednesday, June 18, 2008 our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Updates from the 2008 ASCO Annual Meeting. Generosa Grana, M.D., F.A.C.P. and Carol Kaplan, M.D. answered your questions about the latest research advances on screening, treatment, side effects, and more.

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